Layering part-singing: adding a three note melody
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can play a three note melody, partnering this with a different song.
Key learning points
- Practising well prepares us for singing three-part rounds and three partner songs.
- Instrumental melodies can be layered under songs.
- A sound sense of pulse is essential when combining instrument melodies and singing together.
Keywords
Melody - a combination of notes to make a memorable tune
Texture - the combination of different layers of sounds
Pulse - the regular, steady heartbeat of the music
Common misconception
Layering an instrumental melody with a different song will not create pleasing harmonies.
Partner songs are selected to work together because their notes fit together harmoniously. It doesn't matter if we play or sing the melody, it will work equally well.
Teacher tip
Keep practising melodies away from the instruments and do not place an overreliance on the notation. By using body actions, hand signs, rhythm chants, singing the notes, tapping the rhythm, you are consolidating understanding, making the playing part easier!
Equipment
Pitched percussion instruments with the notes F, A, C'. For example, glockenspiels or xylophones. Maximum needed - one between two.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Match the singing structure to its definition.
Q2.Match the musical element to its definition.
Q3.Which of these is the highest pitch in Chocolaté?
Q4.How would you chant this rhythm?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Why is it important to develop a sound sense of pulse?
Q2.When we sing three songs together, that work harmoniously, at the same time, we are singing
Q3.Banaha (Si Si Si) is an example of what kind of song structure?
Q4.How would you sing this melody?
To help you plan your 5 music lesson on: Layering part-singing: adding a three note melody, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 5 music lesson on: Layering part-singing: adding a three note melody, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 2 music lessons from the Sing, play, perform: adding tuned accompaniment to part-singing unit, dive into the full primary music curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.